Junior Language Challenge launched

Harry Porter

The challenge is open to children aged 10 and under starting in September 2016 and taking place across three knockout stages.

For each round, competitors learn a new language using online software, and this year they’ll be starting with Romanian.

The organisers, EuroTalk, say they are keen to support the Scottish Government’s decision to ensure all primary school children in Scotland will be able to learn two languages in addition to their own by 2020.

Richard Howeson, EuroTalk’s chairman said: “The Scottish Government’s 1+2 policy for language learning in primary schools is exemplary. We know that younger children enjoy learning languages, and it’s good for their personal development too,”

“We hope our decision to launch our UK-wide challenge in Scotland will encourage more Scottish schools to join in the fun and enter.”

George Watson’s College in Edinburgh is a regular participant in the Junior Language Challenge. Gavin Murray, an 11-year-old student at the school, was a finalist last year.

He said: “Taking part in the JLC was one of my best experiences in 2015.

“We even delayed our holiday so I could take part in the final! Unfortunately I’m too old to do the JLC this year, but I’d recommend it to anyone else who can.”

Each child who enters the Junior Language Challenge pays a £5 donation to EuroTalk’s sister charity onebillion, which creates unique maths and English-learning software tools for children in developing countries.